Kratom in Castle Rock

Maintaining Castle Rock’s safety and community character is a top priority. With that in mind, Town staff has begun researching kratom within the community. Kratom is an unregulated herbal substance found in the leaves of a Southeast Asian tree. Those leaves can be made into a tea, chewed or made into a capsule. The active ingredients in kratom have effects similar to an amphetamine and have been used for various purposes such as pain relief. Currently, there are several businesses in Town that sell kratom. The Town has recently received an inquiry about a possible kratom bar. This kratom bar would be similar to a coffee shop or café. Now, the Town is taking a proactive look at kratom and potential businesses in Town.

Town Council recently approved an ordinance to provide a temporary suspension on the establishment of new businesses related to kratom sales. This ordinance will allow Town staff the opportunity to further survey and collaborate with both the kratom industry and regulatory agencies to identify, and potentially regulate, kratom sales within the Town.

Currently, many federal agencies, including the FDA and DEA, are studying kratom due to concerns about potential abuse, quality control and marketing practices. Potential regulations that could be considered include age restrictions and limitations of onsite consumption.

What does this ordinance mean?

Town Council approved an ordinance to provide a temporary suspension on the establishment of new businesses related to kratom sales Dec. 18. It’s important to note, this ordinance does not change any current laws or regulations related to kratom, and does not impact the sale, consumption or possession of kratom. This ordinance would only impact new licenses for potential kratom businesses in Castle Rock.

Because of the potential risk to public safety, the ordinance was adopted on an emergency first and final reading. This ordinance will allow Town staff 180 days to further survey and collaborate with both the kratom industry and regulatory agencies to identify, and potentially regulate, kratom sales within the Town.

What’s next?

Town Council has imposed a 180-day suspension on the establishment of new kratom consumption businesses. This will give Town staff the opportunity to proactively survey kratom as it relates to public health, welfare and safety. Town staff will collaborate with both the kratom industry and regulatory agencies to survey and discuss potential kratom regulations. As part of that process, the Town will provide opportunities for community feedback. Any recommended regulations would be brought to Town Council for further consideration.